As we celebrate Women's History Month, we look back on the remarkable women whose stories have shaped our understanding of leadership, resilience and progress.

Trailblazers that didn't just break glass ceilings—they redefined what leadership looks like for women of the past and today. By learning from their experiences, we can learn and recognize how to continue making history every day by growing as leaders and empowering the next generation of women.

Throughout my career developing leaders at Jennifer Maxson & Associates, I've seen many women holding themselves back, believing that asking for help or support means you're not smart enough or don't have what it takes to lead. This couldn't be further from the truth.

Leadership is a journey, there is no perfect leadership model, and there are gaps between where we are today and what we need for the future. We evolve based on our experiences, our team and other outside factors.

We encounter roadblocks like imposter syndrome. You might think you aren't a good fit for a role or don't have the qualifications, but many people have those thoughts. More than 70% of U.S. CEOs said they experience symptoms of imposter syndrome in a 2024 report by Korn Ferry.

That is why it is so important to ask for help. It allows you to expand your perspective, grow as a leader and elevate your team.

HOW TO GROW AS A LEADER

To become an effective leader, you must learn how to deliver messages with confidence. I coach my clients to "Be Bright. Be Brief. Be Gone." This framework helps them bring the right information with the appropriate delivery style, speak clearly and respect their audience's time.

Leaders are responsible for building psychological safety by asking what support or help individuals need in order to be successful on a project and in their current role. This creates an environment for employees to ask for help.

Through my coaching practice, I find many women who feel the need to apologize for everyone and everything. If it's not your responsibility or mistake, apologizing for it can add extra emotional weight and responsibilities.

Remember that you are the expert in your industry. You know the ins and outs of your business or job. Be confident in yourself and what you do.

OVERCOMING GENDER ROADBLOCKS

Women still face hurdles in the workforce as they try to grow as leaders. Whether it's bias, lack of representation, or expectations surrounding communication styles, these barriers can feel overwhelming. Your gender should never deter you from owning your seat at the decision-making table.

Different perspectives lead to better decisions and stronger organizations. Women bring collaborative approaches and insightful solutions when given the opportunity to lead. The next step isn't about fitting into traditional leadership molds, but finding what talents and skills you have to continue to grow in your role and company as a leader.

EMPOWERING THE NEXT GENERATION

As we reflect during Women's History Month, I challenge each of us to consider how we're growing and mentoring the female leaders of tomorrow.

Through serving as a mentor in the Peter Cook Leadership Academy at Grand Valley State University, I've been able to help young women start their career journeys. Mentoring is not only rewarding, but it allows you to be a guide and sound board for them, as they set out into the world.

My volunteer work with Michigan Women Forward has also allowed me to coach women entrepreneurs. Through our customized program for their Women Up & Pitch competition, we help women leaders develop the skills to secure funding for their businesses. These relationships aren't just about sharing knowledge; they're about creating a network of support that extends across generations and industries.

This Women's History Month, as we honor those who came before us, let's also commit to making history ourselves by improving ourselves and empowering the female leaders of tomorrow. Together, we can Lead to the Max!

Written by Jennifer Maxson, CEO of Jennifer Maxson & Associates.

Photo courtesy of Jennifer Maxson & Associates.